Celebrating the Legacy and Achievements of 28 Pioneering African Americans fields, from science and literature to activism and the arts. Each individual showcased here has not only advanced their respective fields but has also laid the groundwork for future generations to thrive. These trailblazers serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of Black excellence.
Robert Smalls (1839–1915)
Robert Smalls was an enslaved man who escaped to freedom during the Civil War by commandeering a Confederate ship, the CSS Planter. After delivering the ship to Union forces, he became a Union Navy captain and later a U.S. Congressman.
Smalls advocated for public education and civil rights during Reconstruction, helping to establish South Carolina’s public school system. His daring escape and subsequent leadership made him a symbol of African American resilience and ingenuity.
Reference: McPherson, J. M. (2007). The Negro’s Civil War: How American Blacks felt and acted during the war for the Union. Vintage Books.
About Dr. Fredrick Echols, MD
Dr. Fredrick L. Echols, MD is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Population Health and Social Justice Consulting, LLC, an Obama Foundation Global Leader, sought-after public speaker, black men’s health advocate, and accomplished physician with over 15 years of experience in public health. He has worked extensively with public and private sectors to address complex health issues through evidence-informed approaches. Dr. Echols is a graduate of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Population Health Training in Place program and the ASTHO-Morehouse School of Medicine’s Diverse Executives Leading in Public Health program.
Passionate about health and justice, Dr . Echols’ notable roles include serving as Chief Executive Officer for Cure Violence Global, Health Commissioner for the City of St. Louis, and Director of Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness for the St. Louis County Department of Public Health. In these roles, he oversaw public health regulations, led COVID-19 response efforts, managed daily operations, and developed strategic partnerships. Dr. Echols also served as Chief of Communicable Diseases for the Illinois Department of Public Health and as a physician in the U.S. Navy. He continues to contribute to public health research and guides health organizations globally.
For more health tips follow Dr. Fredrick Echols @ Fredrick.Echols@gmail.com
Follow Dr. Echols on socials:
- Facebook: @FredrickEchols
- Instagram: @F.EcholsMD
- LinkedIn: @FredrickEcholsMD ( www.linkedin.com/in/fredrick-echols-m-d-5a2063225)
Contact Dr. Echols for speaking enagagments and consultation opportunities: 404-386-1522
Keywords: Robert Smalls, African American history, Civil War, trailblazers, freedom
#RobertSmalls #Trailblazer #HistoryHero
